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File 028425

Constrained From Fighting, Trump Is Left a Spectator With Kavanaugh in Peril (File 028425)

New York Times article analyzing President Trump's limited ability to influence Judge Brett Kavanaugh's Supreme Court confirmation amid sexual assault allegations from Christine Blasey Ford.

Summary

This September 2018 New York Times article examines President Trump's frustration during Judge Brett Kavanaugh's Supreme Court confirmation hearings as sexual assault allegations emerged. Trump, constrained by his party's electoral concerns and his own past misconduct accusations, finds himself largely unable to influence the proceedings despite his preference for aggressive defense. The article details the political tensions between Trump's combative instincts and Republican senators' cautious approach, particularly regarding vulnerable moderates like Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski whose votes were critical. Trump's criticism of accuser Christine Blasey Ford drew backlash from key Republican senators, forcing him into an unaccustomed role as spectator.

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